Baseball bunting target system and method

ABSTRACT

A batter training and protection system and method are shown. A protector for protecting an infield area is provided with a plurality of indicia situated thereon or integrally formed therein to define a plurality of target areas, respectively. The indicia may comprise a plurality of material segments, a plurality of colors, patterns, graphics or the like in order to define the plurality of target areas at which a player may practice bunting a baseball.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates to baseball and, more particularly, to a targetsystem and method for training a player to bunt a baseball topredetermined zones or targets and also for protecting an infield areaof a baseball field.

Baseball is a game played with a wooden bat and a hard or soft ball bytwo opposing teams of nine players, each team playing alternately in thefield and at bat. When a ball is hit by a player at bat, the player runsa course of four bases laid out in a diamond pattern in order to score,which is why it is important for batters to be proficient at hitting abaseball.

One type of hit is the full swing hit and another type of hit is thebunt. During the bunt, a pitched ball is hit with less than a full swingand with an upper hand of a player supporting the middle of the bat, sothat the ball rolls slowly in front of the infielders.

During batting practice, a player practices bunting softly such that theball rolls slowly in front of the area directly in front of home plate.This is sometimes referred to as a sacrifice bunt and is designed toadvance a runner from first base to second base at the expense of asacrificial ground out by the batter. Some batters are so adept atbunting a baseball that they can bunt the ball for a hit. This type ofbunt is typically hit along and in front of the third baseline in “fair”territory. Whether a bunt is a sacrifice bunt or a bunt-for-hit bunt isusually determined by the direction of the bunted ball and its rollingspeed.

During batting practice, each player takes a turn at hitting baseballspitched to him or her by a pitcher. Batting practice takes place atdaily team practice sessions and before each game. Typically, each teamaverages about twenty players. During each practice session, each playertakes at least ten full swings and three practice bunts, resulting in atleast 200 hits that take place per session and 400 before a game, whichrepresents the total number of hits for both teams.

Many of the balls hit in the full swing session take a downwardtrajectory, thus hitting the turf area in the infield inside the basepaths. In baseball, this is called a “grounder.” It is believed that upto half of the hit balls are grounders. As a result, the grass in theinfield area directly in front of home base is subjected to great wearand stress during each pre-game practice period. Added to this pre-gamewear is the wear of the weekly 500-800 balls impacting the same infieldgrass area during daily practice of the home team. The overall stress ofthese continued impacts, in aggregate, results in the degradation of thequality of turf in the infield area directly in front of the home basebatting area.

To combat this damage to the infield area, many teams use a mesh fabricto cover the area in front of home base during batting practice. To keepthe mesh fabric down in the wind and to protect the players fromtripping over the edges, the infield mesh protectors were anchored tothe ground via steel stakes through grommets in the edge of theprotector spaced approximately three feet apart.

To help batters aim their bunts in practice, cones similar to trafficcones have been used. The cones are placed in the infield where a batterwould attempt to hit a bunt at the cone. This type of product has notbeen commercially successful because of the potential safety problem inthat during a full swing portion of a batting practice session, a groundball glancing off a target could injure a defensive player.

There is needed, therefore, a system and method for improving buntingproficiency and, if desired, for providing protection for the infieldarea.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is, therefore, an object of the invention to provide at least one ora plurality of indicia for providing well-defined target zone(s) orarea(s) to train a player where to hit sacrifice bunts andbunts-for-hits.

Another object of an embodiment is to provide a bunting target that canbe placed on a surface, either outdoors or indoors, and that providesone or more target zones at which a player may hit a baseball. Thebunting target may be used on any desired surface, such as a baseballinfield or diamond, batting cage area, gymnasium floor or other surface,such that a baseball may be bunted onto the target and permitted to rollthereon.

Another object of one embodiment is to provide a protector, protectionmeans or a protection system and method for protecting the infield areaand simultaneously providing the aforementioned target zone(s) or areas.

Another object of one embodiment is to provide a baseball trainingsystem and method that provides a plurality of indicia that may beplaced on the ground or on another tarp, for providing a plurality ofwell-defined target zones. In one embodiment, the indicia may comprise aplurality of patterns or colors, respectively, that define the pluralityof target area or zones. For example, a yellow color may be used toidentify and segment the target zone or area along third baseline andwhich defines a bunt-for-hit area, and a green color may be used toidentify and define a sacrifice bunt area, and a red color may be usedto identify a bad-bunt area, target or zone.

In one aspect, this invention comprises an infield protector and buntingtrainer for protecting an infield area of a baseball field and forfacilitating training a player to bunt a baseball, comprising: aprotector for placing on the infield area, and a plurality of targetzones for defining a plurality of targets at which a player may throw orhit a baseball.

In another aspect, this invention comprises a baseball training systemcomprising: a material comprising a predetermined shape, and at leastone indicia associated with the material for defining at least onetarget zone to facilitate training a baseball player.

In yet another aspect, this invention comprise a baseball trainingsystem comprising a trainer for placing at an infield area, and aplurality of indicia associated with the trainer for defining aplurality of target zones for training a batter where to bunt abaseball.

In still another aspect, this invention comprises a method for traininga batter to bunt a baseball, providing a trainer for positioning on aninfield, the trainer comprising a plurality of target zones at which thebatter may bunt the baseball, and throwing a baseball at the batter sothat the batter may hit the baseball at one of the plurality of targetzones.

In yet another aspect, this invention comprises a bunting target systemcomprising: at least one bunting target for placing on a surface and forproviding a batter with a target area at which the batter may bunt abaseball wherein the at least one bunting target lies in a firstimaginary plane that is generally parallel to a second imaginary planeof the surface and permitting a bunted baseball to roll on it.

In still another aspect, this invention comprises a method for traininga player to bunt a baseball to a predetermined area on a baseball fieldcomprising the steps of: providing a target that defines an at least onetarget zone at which the player may selectively bunt the baseball, andpositioning the target in an infield area so that when the baseball ispitched at the player, the player may bunt it toward one of theplurality of target zones.

In yet another aspect, this invention comprises a baseball fieldcomprising: a baseball field, a bunting target panel having a pluralityof bunting targets situated on the field.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing description, the accompanying drawings and the appendedclaims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a view of a bunting target or trainer situated at an infieldarea of a baseball field;

FIG. 2 is plan view of the bunting target or trainer shown in FIG. 1 andfurther illustrating a plurality of indicia A-D;

FIG. 3 is a view similar to FIG. 1 showing the plurality of indicia A-Dcomprising a plurality of colors, respectively;

FIG. 4 is a plan view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 3;

FIG. 5 is plan view of the bunting target showing various features ofthe target, including a web material situated in a seam;

FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the bunting target shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 7 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 8 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 9 is a left side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 10 is a right side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5;

FIG. 11 is a plan view of another embodiment showing a weight situatedin the seam of the bunting target;

FIG. 12 is a sectional view taken along the line 12-12 in FIG. 5;

FIG. 13 is a view of an embodiment illustrating a plurality of segmentsthat form the bunting target to be detachable from each other;

FIG. 14 is a view of a bunting target having fasteners or fasteningmeans for securing the target to an existing tarp or sheet;

FIG. 15 illustrates a bunting target applied to an existing tarp;

FIG. 16 illustrates a plurality of bunting targets that are situatedadjacent one another;

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a process for making the bunting target;

FIG. 18 is another embodiment showing a plurality of indicia applied toa precut material;

FIG. 19 is a view similar to FIG. 18, showing an indicia applied to anexisting tarp;

FIG. 20 is a view illustrating another process for applying the indiciato a sheet which is then detachably or permanently secured to anexisting sheet similar to the illustration shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 21 is another plan view of a bunting target according to anotherembodiment, showing a parallelogram-shaped bunt zones along first andthird baselines, including grommets situated in the seam for staking thetarget to the ground or for aligning the target with other grommets onan adjacent target or tarp so that both may be staked to the ground;

FIG. 22 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 24 is a left side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 25 is a right side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21; and

FIG. 26 is a bottom view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 21.

FIG. 27 is a plan view of another embodiment of the invention, showingvarious features of the target, without grommets situated in the seam;

FIG. 28 is a bottom view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 29 is a front view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 30 is a rear view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27;

FIG. 31 is a left side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27; and

FIG. 32 is a right side view of the embodiment shown in FIG. 27.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-32, a baseball training system 10 for training aplayer 12 (FIG. 1) to hit or bunt a baseball 14 will now be described.The invention will be described and shown as used with an infield area16 of a baseball field 18, but it is to be understood that it could beused on a practice field, indoor area, a batting cage area or othersuitable area if desired.

As is well known, the typical baseball field 18 comprises a firstbaseline 20 and a third baseline 22. It is desirable to help players 12become more proficient at aiming their hits and bunts during battingpractice to a bunting target or trainer 11 comprising at least one or aplurality of different target areas or zones 24, 26 and 28 and 30 thatare defined by a plurality of indicia A-D, respectively, and describedmore particularly later herein. The target zone 24 corresponds to abunt-for-hit area or zone where the batter 12 bunts the baseball 14 withthe intention of obtaining a hit, rather than a sacrifice out. Thetarget areas or zones 26 and 30 are sacrifice bunt areas that provide aplurality of targets at which the player 12 bunts the baseball 14 withthe intention of advancing a runner on base, while knowing that he willprobably be thrown out at first base. The fourth area or zone 28 in theembodiment being described is a bad-bunt area or zone at which theplayer 12 should avoid bunting the baseball 14 because of the highprobability that the player 12 will be thrown out at first base or therunner on first base will be thrown out at second base, or both.

Except for the target zone or area 24, the target zones 26-30 increasein their lateral size along their width (labeled by double arrow X inFIG. 2) as they extend radially away from home plate 50. The target zone24 (FIG. 1) defines a parallelogram that retains substantially the samewidth (labeled with arrow Y in FIG. 2) along its entire length. Theplurality of target zones 24-30 provide a plurality of distinct, visibletargets at which player 12 may practice hitting and bunting the baseball14. In the embodiment being described, four target zones 24-30 areshown, but it should be understood that more or fewer target zones 24-30may be provided.

Referring now to FIGS. 1 and 2, an embodiment of the invention comprisesat least one or a plurality of material targets, sections, segments orcovers 32, 34, 36 and 38. The targets 32-38 comprise the plurality ofindicia A, B, C, and D, respectively, that in turn, identify and definethe target zones 24-30 mentioned earlier. In the embodiment illustratedin FIGS. 1 and 2, the plurality of indicia are identified for ease ofunderstanding by the letters A, B, C and D. The indicia A-D define thevarious target zones or areas 24-30, respectively. The plurality ofindicia A-D provide the player 12 with a plurality of distinct andvisible target regions, zones or areas 24-30 at which a batter may hitor bunt the ball 14. In the embodiment being described, the system 10comprises one indicia A-D associated with each of the targets 32-38,respectfully, but it should be understood that more than one indicia A-Dmay be used with the targets 32-38 and some of the targets 32-38 may beprovided without any indicia A-D. The indicia A-D define predeterminedshapes and sizes that generally correspond to the shapes and sizes ofthe desired target areas or zones 24-30 that may be selected by aperson, such as a baseball coach. In the embodiment being described,target 32 defines an overall shape and area that is different from theshapes and areas of targets 34-38, but it should be understood that thetargets 32-38 may comprise the same or similar shapes and areas ifdesired. For example, it may be desirable to provide a target having theshape of target 32 along the first baseline to provide a bunt-for-hitarea target. Thus, the targets 32-38 whether used separately or incombination (either detached or secured together), provide targets onwhatever surface they are place, such as the field 18 or infield area,batting cage area, the ground, a floor (e.g., a gymnasium floor or arenafloor or any surface or practice area).

In one embodiment, targets 32-38 are fastened or coupled together at theseams 40, 42 and 44 with a heat weld or sewn seam, as best shown in FIG.12. In another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 13, the targets 32-38 maybe detachably fastened together with a suitable fastener 39, such asVelcro® fasteners 39, but other fasteners could be used, such as snaps(not shown), zippers (not shown) and the like. As illustrated in FIG.16, some or all of the targets 32-38 may be placed on the groundadjacent one another and not fastened together at all if desired. Forease of illustration, the embodiment will be described assuming thetargets 32-38 are permanently fastened together at seams 40, 42 and 44,as illustrated in FIGS. 1-4.

The indicia A-D may be any suitable indicia for providing the player 12with a bunting target or a visual image of the various target zones24-30. For example, FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate each of the targets 32-38comprising a predetermined or preselected color indicia integrallyformed in the targets 32-38. In the illustration shown in FIGS. 3-4, thetargets 32-38 are yellow, green, red and green, respectively, toidentify the various target areas 24-30. The indicia A-D may be the sameor different, with the importance being that the indicia A-D provide theplayer 12 with a visual image or display of the various target zones24-30 at which the player 12 is being trained to bunt the baseball 14.The target zones lie in a plane that is generally parallel to the groundor other surface on which the targets 32-38 are situated, as illustratedin FIGS. 21-26 which shows a plurality of indicia A-E. The indicia A-Ddo not have to encompass the entire area defined by targets 32-38. Forexample, the indicia A-D could be distinct divider lines or boundarylines (not shown) along the seams 40, 42, and 44 that separate anddefine the zones 24-30 or even pictures or an image in the zones 24-30.Thus, the indicia A-D and targets 32-38, zones 24-30 and could be anysuitable size, shape, pattern, color, lines, art, graphics, painting,texture, fabric for providing the player 12 with a visual image of thevarious target zones or areas 24-30. Also, the indicia A-D may have thesame or a different shape, size or configuration from the zones 24-30and targets 32-38.

It should be understood that the indicia A-D may be placed on, appliedto, secured to or fastened to any existing one-piece tarp or sheet, asillustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, with the indicia A-D defining the targetzones 24-30. Thus, in another embodiment of Applicant's invention, thereis provided the plurality of targets, zones or areas 24-30 applied to orintegral with a one-piece material.

In the illustrations of FIGS. 1-4, the targets 32-38 embody and definethe indicia A-D, and the indicia A-D define the target zones 24-30 atwhich the player 12 bunts the baseball. FIGS. 5-12 illustrate variousend, side and sectional views illustrating the indicia A-D, such as thecolors being integral with the various targets 32-38. The embodimentsshown in FIGS. 3-12 illustrate the indicia A-D comprising colors appliedto or integral with the targets 32-38, but again, the indicia A-Dassociated with the targets 32-38 may comprise other indicia, such asseparators, patterns (not shown), graphic patterns, graphics, colors,lines, pictures or images applied to the targets 32-38 or integraltherewith. Also, more or fewer indicia A-D may be used depending uponthe number of targets or zones 24-30 to be defined. For example, in theembodiment shown in FIGS. 21-26, the bunt zone 32-1 is provided alongfirst baseline and this is defined by indicia E. The important featureis that the indicia A-D are provided to define the targets or zones24-30 that provide the batter 12 with a visual image and visuallyperceptible target zones or areas 24-30 that correspond to theaforementioned bunt-for-hit zone, sacrifice bunt zones and bad-buntzone. Although not shown, audible sounds, sensors or other indicatorsmay be provided or used with the bunting target 11 in order to notifythe player 12 of the zone 24-30 in which he or she hit the baseball 14.

As shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, note that target 32 comprises a pluralityof edges 32 a-32 d, target 34 comprises edges 34 a-34 d, target 36comprises edges 36 a-36 d and target 38 comprises edges 38 a-38 d asshown. After the targets 32-38 are situated adjacent each other or arefastened together, either permanently or detachably, they define thebunting target 11 having a perimeter 48 defined by the edges 38 b, 38 c,36 c, 34 c, 32 c, 32 a, 32 d, 34 d, 36 d and 38 d. As shown, the buntingtarget 11 defines a trapezoid shape in the illustration being described.

In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-12 and 14, the targets 32-38 areillustrated as being permanently fastened together at seams 40, 42 and44 to define the bunting target 11. FIG. 13 illustrates the targets32-38 being detachably fastened together by a suitable fastener 39, suchas Velcro@. FIG. 16 illustrates the targets 32-38 neither detachably norpermanently fastened together, but being situated adjacent one anotheras mentioned earlier. FIG. 15 illustrates the bunting target 11 definedby the indicia A-D which are applied to or integral with a continuous,one-piece material, such as a sheet or tarp 70 of any preselected shapeor size. In this illustration, the indicia A-D is applied to the sheetor tarp 70 by, for example, affixing, adhering, painting or embossingthe indicia A-D onto the material sheet or tarp 70. Alternatively, thebunting target 11 may be provided in either a one-piece or multi-piececonstruction having an adhesive (not shown) or gum surface (not shown)for affixing bunting target 11 to tarp 70. In another embodimentillustrated in FIG. 14, the bunting target 11 may be laid over orattached to an existing tarp or field protector 52 using suitablefasteners 54 and 56, such as Velcro®.

It should be understood that the bunting target 11 has multiple featuresand functions. It comprises the indicia A-D, which defines the pluralityof target zones 24-30, respectively, and it may be provided in a durableand/or water-proof material that protects the infield area 16 fromweather and/or damage from the numerous practice bunts and groundersthat are hit at the plurality of target zones 24-30 during practice orwarm up before a game. In one embodiment, the targets 32-38 and thebunting target 11 are a mesh material comprised of a vinyl coatedpolyester. It should be understood, however, that the material may bemade using a fabric or other polymer material (either solid or mesh) ifdesired.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 and 12, note that bunting target 11 comprises asewn seam or hem 60 on its exterior perimeter 48 defined by edges 11 a,11 b, 11 c and 11 d. The seam 60 contains a web of material 62 thatprovides strength to the perimeter 48. In one embodiment, the buntingtarget 11 may be provided with a plurality of grommets 64 at spacedintervals along the perimeter 48. The grommets 64 receive a stake forstaking the bunting target 11 to the ground. Although not shown, thegrommets 64 may be aligned with other grommets (not shown) on anexisting tarp and staked with a common stake (not shown), such as in theembodiments shown and described in FIGS. 13 and 14. FIGS. 27-32illustrate another embodiment without the use of grommets 64, and FIG.11 illustrates another bunting target 11 that comprises a weight 66,such as a chain, in the seam 60 to weight the bunting target 11 down andto reduce or eliminate the need for the grommets 64 and stakes.

It should be understood that each of the indicia A-D and plurality oftargets 32-38 may comprise a predetermined or preselected area andshape. When the target 32 or bunting target 11 is situated in theinfield 16, the edges 32 a and 32 b become aligned with and generallyparallel to the third baseline 22 as shown. This provides the batter 12with a well-defined “alley,” target zone or area 24 defining thebunt-for-hit area or zone 24 at which the player 12 may attempt to hitthe ball 14. In the embodiment being described, the dimensions and areasof the targets 32-38 and bunting target 11 are as follows: ReferenceNumber Dimension/Area Target 32 area 140 square feet Edge 32a 28′ 4″Edge 32b 28′ 4″ Edge 32c  7′ 0″ Edge 32d  7′ 0″ Target 34 area 187square feet Edge 34a 28′ 4″ Edge 34b 20′ 11″ Edge 34c 17′ 10″ Edge 34d 2′ 7″ Target 36 area 233 square feet Edge 36a 20′ 11″ Edge 36b 20′ 11″Edge 36c 17′ 8″ Edge 36d  5′ 6″ Target 38 area 328 square feet Edge 38a20′ 11″ Edge 38b 28′ 4″ Edge 38c 23′ 2″ Edge 38d  9′ 7″ Bunting target11 area 888 square feet Edge 11a 64′ 0″ Edge 11b 24′ 0″ Edge 11c 28′ 3″Edge 11d 28′ 3″ T (FIG. 8) Fabric Thickness = .016″ Cover Edge Thickness= 1″± W₁ (FIG. 2) 24′ 0″ W₂ (FIG. 2) 64′ 0″ A₁ (FIG. 2)  7′ 0″ A₂ (FIG.2)  7′ 0″ B₁ (FIG. 2) 16′ 2″ B₂ (FIG. 2)  2′ 7″ C₁ (FIG. 2) 17′ 8″ C₂(FIG. 2)  5′ 6″ D₁ (FIG. 2) 23′ 2″ D₂ (FIG. 2)  9′ 7″

Although the bunting target 11 has been shown and described ascomprising the four indicia A-D integral with the targets 32-38,respectively, that define the four target zones or areas 24-30, itshould be understood that more or fewer indicia A-D or targets 32-38could be provided if desired. For example, it is anticipated that on aprofessional baseball level, more indicia A-D may be provided to finetune the professional player's ability to bunt the baseball 14 towardmore particular zones, areas or targets on the infield 16.

As mentioned earlier, the bunting target 11 comprises the indicia A-Dformed in and defining the plurality of targets 32-38 that correspond tothe plurality of target zones or areas 24-30 and the targets 32-38 maybe permanently or detachably fastened together in the manner describedherein to provide the bunting target 11. In another embodiment, a singleintegral tarp, sheet or cover 52 (FIG. 15), without welds or seams 40,42 and 44, (FIG. 2), may be used to define the bunting target 11, withthe plurality of target zones or areas 24-30, respectively, beingdefined by indicia A-D applied to the cover or integrally formedtherein. The tarp, sheet or cover 52 may be provided in any desireddimension, thickness, shape or size. Thus, a unique feature ofApplicant's invention is that it provides indicia A-D that are appliedto or integral with the single segment or integral with the varioussegments or targets 32-38 to define the plurality of target zones orareas 24-30. As alluded to earlier, each target 32-38 may comprise morethan one indicia A-D, which means that each target 32-38 may define morethan one of the target zones 24-30.

As mentioned earlier, a feature of the embodiment being described isthat one or more of the targets 32-38 and/or bunting target 11 maysimultaneously define protection means or a protector for protecting anarea that they cover from damage from ground balls or balls that arebunted or hit toward the areas 24-30. The bunting target 11 may also beprovided in a water resistant material to simultaneously protect thefield 18 from rain.

As alluded to earlier and as illustrated in FIG. 14, the targets 32-38may be placed on top of or even adhered or fastened to an existing fieldprotector, such as the tarp 52. For example, the targets 32-38 may bepermanently or detachably fastened together and placed on or secured tothe tarp 70, which may comprise Velcro® 54, 56 that enables the buntingtarget 11 to be detachably fastened to the tarp 52.

Several processes and methods for manufacturing the bunting target 11and embodiments previously described will now be described relative toFIGS. 17-20. In FIG. 17, a plurality of supply rolls 80, 82 and 84having a supply of the material having the indicia A-D, such as thecolors mentioned earlier, integrally formed therein is provided. Thematerials 80-84 are provided to a cutter or cutting station 86 wherethey cut to the shape selected which are the polygonal shapes in theembodiment being described. The various segments, sections and targets32-38 are transferred to a welding station where they are heat welded toform the seams 40-44 described earlier herein. The various targets 32-38comprise the indicia A-D as shown and define the bunting target 11 whichis then situated at a seaming station where the web 62 is placed and theseam 60 (FIG. 12) is folded at station 90 as shown. The bunting target11 is then transferred to the sewing station 92 where the double stitch61 may be applied to the bunting target 11 to seal the seam 60 createdat the station 90. The sewn bunting target 11 is then transferred to agrommet station 94 where the grommets 64 are placed at the ends of theseams 40, 42 and 44 and in the corners of the bunting target 11illustrated.

Referring now to FIG. 18, another method or procedure for manufacturingthe bunting target 11 comprising the indicia A-D is shown. The processbegins with a supply of material 96 that is cut to the predetermined ordesired shape of the bunting target 11 at a cutting station 98. The cutmaterial is then transferred to an indicia station 100, where theindicia A-D are applied to the bunting target 11. In this regard, theindicia station 100 may apply the indicia A-D by means of painting,embossing, labeling, securing or other means in order to define thetarget areas 32-38 as described earlier herein.

FIG. 19 refers to yet another process and method for applying andcreating a bunting target 11 on the conventional tarp 70. Theconventional tarp 70 is subjected to an application of the indicia byapplying indicia A-D thereto in the manner described earlier herein(e.g., by painting, embossing, adhesive or the like).

FIG. 20 illustrates still another process and method for manufacturing aconventional tarp or cover 52 with the bunting target 11. In thisembodiment, the application station 104 applies the various indicia A-Dto an existing material, such as a material having an adhesive or theaforementioned fasteners 54, 56 (FIG. 14) that is then applied to thecover or tarp 52 to provide the tarp 52 with the plurality of targetareas 32-38 as shown.

A method for training a batter to bunt a baseball will now be described.The targets 32-38 are assembled to provide the bunting target 11, whichis situated or placed in front of a batter's box on an indoor area oroutdoor area, such as in front of a batting cage or on the infield area16 illustrated in FIGS. 1-4. Referring back to FIGS. 1-4, if the buntingtarget 11 is used on the baseball field 18, then it is placed in theinfield area 16 bounded by first baseline 20, the pitcher's mound 21,third base 22 and home plate 50. The indicia A-D associated with thetargets 32-38 define the desired plurality of target zones 24-30,respectively. A pitcher 13 or batting machine (not shown) throws thebaseball 14 toward the batter 12 so that the batter 12 may practicebunting the baseball 14 at one of the target zones 24-30. For example,if the batter 12 is practicing bunting the baseball 14 toward thebunt-for-hit target zone 24, defined by indicia A in FIGS. 1 and 2, thebatter 12 bunts the ball toward the target zone 24, which is identifiedby the color yellow in illustration. The player 12 may then attempt tohit pitched balls 14 at the same zone 24 or one or more of the otherzones 26-30.

Advantageously, this system and method provide means for training aplayer to bunt or hit a baseball 14 toward a particular target area24-30. If the bunting target 11 and the targets 32-38 making up thebunting target 11, whether used alone or fastened together, are made ofa durable material of the type described herein, then the targets 32-38and bunting target 11 will serve the dual purpose of protecting thefield from balls hit or bunted at the target zones 24-30.

Other objects and advantages of the invention will be apparent from thefollowing description, the accompanying drawings and the appendedclaims.

1. A bunting target system comprising: at least one bunting target for placing on a surface and for providing a batter with a target area at which the batter may bunt a baseball wherein said at least one bunting target lies in a first imaginary plane that is generally parallel to a second imaginary plane of said surface and permitting a bunted baseball to roll on it.
 2. The bunting target system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target comprises at least one indicia.
 3. The bunting target system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target comprises at least one material segment.
 4. The bunting target system as recited in claim 3 wherein said at least one material segment comprises at least one indicia.
 5. The baseball training system as recited in claim 2 wherein said at least one indicia comprises a shape of said bunting target.
 6. The baseball training system as recited in claim 2 wherein said at least one indicia comprises a color integrally formed or applied to said bunting target.
 7. The baseball training system as recited in claim 3 wherein said color is red, yellow or green.
 8. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target is defined by a cover that defines a plurality of target zones.
 9. The baseball training system as recited in claim 8 wherein said plurality of target zones define at least one of a bunt-for-hit area, a sacrifice bunt area or a bad-bunt area.
 10. The baseball training system as recited in claim 8 wherein said plurality of target zones are defined by at least one color is integrally formed in said bunting target to identify at least one of said plurality of target zones.
 11. The baseball training system as recited in claim 8 wherein said at least one color is integrally formed in said cover material and identifies at least one of said bunt-for-hit area, sacrifice bunt area or a bad-bunt area.
 12. The baseball training system as recited in claim 9 wherein said color is yellow, green or red.
 13. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said system comprises: a plurality of covers that cooperate to define said bunting target for training a player to hit a baseball to a plurality of target zones; and a plurality of indicia associated with said plurality of covers, respectively.
 14. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of covers may be detachably fastened together.
 15. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of covers are permanently fastened together.
 16. The baseball training system as recited in claim 14 wherein said plurality of covers, when fastened together, define a trapezoid.
 17. The baseball training system as recited in claim 15 wherein said plurality of covers, when fastened together, define a trapezoid.
 18. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of indicia are defined by a shape of said plurality of covers.
 19. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein a plurality of said plurality of covers comprise different dimension.
 20. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein a plurality of said plurality of indicia comprise different dimensions.
 21. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of indicia are defined by a plurality of colors, respectively, integrally formed in said plurality of covers.
 22. The baseball training system as recited in claim 21 wherein said colors are at least one of the following: red, yellow or green.
 23. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of predetermined areas comprise at least one of a bunt-for-hit area, a sacrifice bunt area or a bad-bunt area.
 24. The baseball training system as recited in claim 23 wherein said plurality of covers comprises a plurality of colors integrally formed in said plurality for covers to identify at least one of said bunt-for-hit area, sacrifice bunt area or a bad-bunt area.
 25. The baseball training system as recited in claim 24 wherein said plurality of colors are yellow, green or red, respectively.
 26. The baseball training system as recited in claim 13 wherein said plurality of predetermined covers correspond to at least one of a bunt-for-hit zone, a sacrifice bunt zone and a bad-bunt zone.
 27. The baseball training system as recited in claim 5 wherein said plurality of covers defines a bunt-for-hit zone indicia associated with said bunt-for-hit zone, a sacrifice bunt zone indicia associated with said sacrifice bunt zone, and a bad-bunt zone indicia associated with said bad bunt zone.
 28. The baseball training system as recited in claim 27 wherein said bunt-for-hit zone indicia, said sacrifice bunt zone indicia and said bad-bunt zone indicia each comprise a color.
 29. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target defines a third base target for positioning in operative relationship with a third baseline.
 30. The baseball training system as recited in claim 29 wherein said at least one bunting target defines a plurality of boundary edges that are generally parallel to said third baseline when said at least one cover is situated over said predetermined area.
 31. The baseball training system as recited in claim 18 wherein said shape is polygonal and defines at least one of a rectangle, triangle, trapezoid or parallelogram.
 32. The baseball training system as recited in claim 18 wherein said plurality of covers define a bunt-for-hit zone cover for positioning adjacent a third baseline, a first sacrifice bunt zone cover for positioning adjacent said bunt-for-hit zone, and a second sacrifice bunt zone cover for positioning adjacent a first baseline.
 33. The baseball training system as recited in claim 14 wherein said plurality of covers each comprise a fastener for detachably fastening said plurality of covers together to another cover.
 34. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target comprises a fastener for detachably fastening said at least one bunting target to a support.
 35. The baseball training system as recited in claim 34 wherein said support is a tarp.
 36. The baseball training system as recited in claim 34 wherein said fastener is Velcro.
 37. The baseball training system as recited in claim 15 wherein said plurality of covers are permanently secured together by welding or sewing.
 38. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said bunting target comprises a vinyl coated polyester mesh material.
 39. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said bunting target comprises a solid fabric material.
 40. The baseball training system as recited in claim 15 wherein said plurality of covers are secured together permanently by weld or sewing.
 41. The baseball training system as recited in claim 14 wherein said plurality of covers are detachably secured together.
 42. The baseball training system as recited in claim 41 wherein said plurality of covers are detachably fastened together with Velcro.
 43. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target is detachably or permanently fastened, secured or adhered to a field protector.
 44. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target defines a protector for facilitating protecting the surface on which it is placed from bunted baseballs.
 45. The baseball training system as recited in claim 1 wherein said at least one bunting target defines either a trapezoid or rectangle.
 46. A method for training a batter to bunt a baseball; providing a trainer for positioning on an infield; said trainer comprising a plurality of target zones at which the batter may bunt the baseball; and throwing a baseball at the batter so that the batter may hit the baseball at one of said plurality of target zones.
 47. The method as recited in claim 46 wherein said plurality of target zones are defined by a plurality of indicia, respectively.
 48. The method as recited in claim 47 wherein said plurality of indicia are a plurality of colors.
 49. The method as recited in claim 18 wherein said plurality of indicia comprise at least one of the following: yellow, red or green.
 50. The method as recited in claim 46 wherein said plurality of target zones are defined by indicia that are integral with said trainer.
 51. The method as recited in claim 46 wherein said method comprises the step of: providing a trainer that comprises a plurality of target zones defining a third base zone, a sacrifice bunt zone, a bad-bunt zone and a first base zone.
 52. The method as recited in claim 51 wherein said plurality of target zones are defined by a plurality of indicia, respectively.
 53. The method as recited in claim 52 wherein said plurality of indicia are defined by a plurality of colors.
 54. The method as recited in claim 53 wherein said plurality of colors comprise a first color associated with said third base zone and a second color associated with said first bad-bunt zone.
 55. The method as recited in claim 54 wherein said first color is yellow and said second color is red.
 56. The method as recited in claim 46 wherein said method comprises the step of: defining said plurality of target zones to extend along radial lines from said batter's box; wherein at least one of said plurality of target zones enlarges as it moves along one of said radial lines away from said batter's box.
 57. The method as recited in claim 46 wherein said method comprises the step of: defining said plurality of target zones to extend along radial lines from said batter's box; wherein a plurality of said plurality of target zones enlarges as it moves along one of said radial lines away from said batter's box.
 58. The method as recited in claims 46, wherein said method further comprises the step of: providing a trainer having a plurality of material segments to define said plurality of target zones and that cooperate to define a predetermined shape.
 59. The method as recited in claim 58, wherein said predetermined shape is polygonal.
 60. The method as recited in claim 58, wherein said predetermined shape is a trapezoid.
 61. The method as recited in claim 46, wherein said method further comprises the step of: providing a trainer that comprises a material that protects the ground and is water-resistant.
 62. A method for training a player to bunt a baseball to a predetermined area on a baseball field comprising the steps of: providing a target that defines an at least one target zone at which the player may selectively bunt the baseball; and positioning the target in an infield area so that when the baseball is pitched at the player, the player may bunt it toward one of the plurality of target zones.
 63. The method for training the player as recited in claim 62 wherein said method further comprises the step of: defining said at least one target zone by a plurality of colors, respectively.
 64. The method for training the player as recited in claim 62 wherein said method further comprises the step of: defining said at least one target zone by a plurality of material segments, respectively.
 65. The method for training the player as recited in claim 62 wherein said target comprises a protector for protecting said infield area.
 66. The method for training the player as recited in claim 64 wherein said at least one target zone provides a plurality of target zones defined by a plurality of material segments, respectively.
 67. A baseball field comprising: a baseball field; a bunting target panel having a plurality of bunting targets situated on the field.
 68. The baseball field as recited in claim 67 wherein the bunting target comprises a plurality of indicia to define said plurality of bunting targets.
 69. The baseball field as recited in claim 67 wherein said plurality of indicia comprise colors or patterns.
 70. An infield protector and bunting trainer for protecting an infield area of a baseball field and for facilitating training a player to bunt a baseball, comprising: a protector for placing on said infield area; and a plurality of target zones for defining a plurality of targets at which a player may throw or hit a baseball.
 71. A baseball training system comprising: a material comprising a predetermined shape; and at least one indicia associated with the material for defining at least one target zone to facilitate training a baseball player.
 72. The baseball training system as recited in claim 71 wherein said material comprises a plurality of indicia associated with the material for defining a plurality of target zones, respectively.
 73. The baseball training system as recited in claim 71 wherein said material comprises a plurality of segments to define a plurality of target zones.
 74. A baseball training system comprising a trainer for placing at an infield area; and a plurality of indicia associated with said trainer for defining a plurality of target zones for training a batter where to bunt a baseball.
 75. The baseball training system as recited in claim 74 wherein said plurality of indicia are areas on said material defined by colors or material segments. 